A surprise rise in housebuilding helped the construction sector to post its
best performance in six months in April, according to a closely watched
survey.

The Markit/CIPS Construction PMI index, which measures activity in the sector,
rose to 49.4 last month from 47.2 in March, reflecting an element of
catch-up after severe weather delays earlier in the year.

While the index is still below the crucial 50 mark that separates growth and
contraction, it is a welcome start to the second quarter after acting as the
main drag on the economy in the three months between January and March.